Freed Circus Lions Begin A New Life In South Africa Apr16 br br Jan Creamer: President of Animal Defenders International (ADI) br br Tim Phillips: Vice President of Animal Defenders International(ADI) br br The lions were rescued from circuses in Colombia & Peru. Animal Defenders International (ADI), which was behind the action, says almost all the lions have had teeth or claws removed & wouldn't survive in the wild. br br The 33 lions were given their first chance to explore their new home at the Emoya Big Cat Sanctuary just north of Johannesburg on Sunday after a two-day journey from South America.